This is like a bread and butter pudding but better! Sliced Easter buns are layered with fresh apple and baked with a vanilla and maple custard – its gorgeous!

Serves 6-8

50g butter
6 hot cross buns
2 apples, peeled and sliced thinly
1 cup milk
1 cup cream
2 eggs
4 tbsp caster sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Pinch mixed spice
2 tbsps maple syrup
Whipped cream or ice cream to serve

1. Preheat oven to 150 C. Generously grease an ovenproof dish with some of the butter, selecting a dish that the buns will fit into quite snugly.
2. Slice each bun vertically into thirds and lay out in the dish, overlapping each slice.
3. Between each, place a slice of apple and sprinkle a few more over the top.
4. Heat milk and cream to trembling stage  - nearly boiling.
5. While it heats, whisk eggs and sugar together until light and creamy, add vanilla, mixed spice and maple syrup. Add hot milk/cream to the egg mix and whisk until combined. Pour over the buns and leave for 15 minutes to allow them to absorb the liquid.
6. Dot top with remaining butter and bake for 30-40 minutes or until puffed up and golden on top.
7. Serve warm in bowls. With whipped cream if you like. Or ice cream. Or both!